Is Solar Thermal the Next Big Renewable?

Concentrated solar power (CSP) could unlock a clean energy future – if it clears the regulatory, technological, and financial hurdles in its way.

The Center for American Progress recently released a white paper that estimates “CSP could add up to 16 gigawatts of baseload power globally within a few years, with a larger return on investment and smaller environmental impact than most other energy technologies.”

The Center goes on to outline how low-cost policy solutions can help reduce financial risks and promote investment in CSP technology.

CSP electricity is generated by heat, and excess output can be stored for later use without intermittency concerns. Storing heat is also 20 to 100 times more cost-effective than storing electricity in batteries, like solar and wind currently do.

According to the CAP, solar thermal could meet about “7 percent of the world’s projected electricity needs in 2030, and 25 percent by 2050.”

About Gaylen Davenport

Worldwide provides clients complete turnkey energy efficiency evaluation and solutions. Our focus is in energy saving measures that offer the most savings and financial incentives, creating a rapid return on investment. What sets Worldwide apart is our ability to design, install and certify our installations to qualify for the Federal tax incentives for energy efficiency, then provide the documentation necessary to secure the tax incentives. Worldwide has recently entered the renewable energy field at the request of several of our clients.